It seems that every time I go to Marrakesh I find some new gems, both the city and the surrounding area has endless things to offer. We have been coming here for 15 years and even though things do definitively change, particularly when it comes to the food scene, whilst other things seem to be moving along a traditional lines in the way you reassuringly would expect them to.
There is so much beauty, the colours, the crafts, the spices... a walk along the streets or the medina and soak it all up. Or head out of town and see a different, more calm side of this vibrant city.
EAT
Plus61, 95 Rue Mohammed el Beqal
If you want a break from chicken tangine, Plus61 is a fantastic spot to come and explore modern Australian/European cooking. Their Chicken Milanese with coleslaw is divine.
Les Jardins du Lotus, Dar El Bacha, 9 Derb Sidi Ali Ben Hamdouch
Located in a pretty courtyard within the Medina, you can enjoy pretty good pasta whilst enjoying the tunes from a DJ.
Ling Ling, Mandarin Oriental, Rte Golf Royal
From the Hakkasan family, in this restaurant you can savour stunning Cantonese dishes and enjoy the lovely gardens in the beautiful Mandarin Oriental hotel.
Sabhi Sabhi, Boulevard el Mansour Eddahbi
In this beautiful restaurant designed by Studio KO you can explore a more modern take on Moroccan cooking.
NOBU, Avenue Echouhada et, Rue du Temple
Nobu delivers to a high standard all over the world and their Marrakesh outpost is no exception. Great sushi and all the Nobu classics.
Le Palace, Avenue Echohada rue Ahmed Chawqui
One of my favourite places in town, delivering classy fare and in very French surrondings. The lower ground feels like old Costes in Paris.
Nomade, 1 Derb Aarjane
An old favourite in the Medina, just off the spice market on Rahba Kedima. Great spot for lunch when you need some shelter from the heat or a rest from the souk.
STAY
El Fenn, Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian 2
This popular riad keeps growing and evolving, but is still a must to come for a meal or a sundowner.
Riad Rosemary, 25 Rue de la Bahia
Beautiful riad by Laurence Leenart, behind the label LRNCE and her signature style shines through the property.
La Mamounia, Avenue Bab Jdid
The Grande Dame of Marrakesh, its Haute Maroc refurb by Jacques Garcia has made it a very desirable place to stay, dine and visit.
Amanjena, km 12, Route de Quarzazate
The Aman hotels always delivers chic and understated so well, the Amanjena is no exception. Perfect for a quiet few days of of town.
Scarabeo Camp, Desert Agafay
An hours drive outside Marrakesh, you'll find a luxury camp in the stone desert of Agafay. A few nights in their beautiful tents will be an unique experience.
Riad Mena & Beyond, 70 Derd Jdid
A serene riad on the outer part of the Medina, the rooms are Moroccan with a mid century Scandi flair. The charm is that its small and you feel more like you're staying at someones house, rather than a hotel.
SHOP
Marrakshi Life, 933 Quartier Industriel Al Massar Route de Safi
We met the founder of this brand in Marrakesh by chance over 10 years ago and have followed their journey ever since. Their workshop is one of my favourite places to visit, where they weave the most beautiful, colourful striped cloth.
LRNCE, 59 Rue Sidi Ghanem
Laurence's wonderful showroom displays her homeware and unique style.
El Fenn, Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hazzian 2
Always offers a great selection of local designers, both in fashion and homeware.
Hanout, 90 Sidi Abdelaziz
A local fashion brand thats worth visiting, they tend to offer their bestselling styles permanently and new fabrics are always introduced.
MORO, Avenue Yacoub El Mansour
Moro has a few shops but the best one is their concept store set within their hotel. They offer homeware, rugs, skin and body products and fashion. Displayed in a beautiful setting, its always a treat to wander and see what you can find.
Jajjah Tea, 116 rue Sidi Ghanem
Half tea salon, half art gallery - this is a fun place to visit. Their teas are locally sourced and the branding is great. Stop by for a lovely cuppa of Moroccan tea and bring some home.
DO
Explore the Souk
If you're not easily overwhelmed, let yourself drift through the souk and take in the colours and scents. It can be chaotic, I prefer to have a target and discover things on route.
Hike Atlas Mountains
Head out of town and discover the villages and hills of the Atlas. Tour guides can take you, or you can set your own agenda to explore.
YSL Museum, Jardin Marjorelle & Berber museum
This stunning building by Studio KO opened in 2017 is dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent, his work and love for Morocco. The Jardin Majorelle is a must when you visit, to see the vast range of cacti and local fauna. The new Berber Museum showcases the skills and crafts of the Berber people and is a feast for the eye.
Agafy Desert
Head of of town to explore the stone desert of Agafy. An hour outside the city and its a completely different world. You can ride camels, go quad biking or explore the local villages.
Hope these recommendations will be useful, if and when you go, enjoy!
Love,
Marte x
